Lake Route through Nature Preserve Østmarka

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Nature Preserve Østmarka and all the lakes in the east of Oslo are the perfect areas for a quiet trip away from the noisy city. The deeper you enter the forests, the more you get rewarded with beautiful scenery landscapes. It was weekend, and I was the only hiker/camper at the small lakes around Østmarka. Most of the trails are accessible by bike until you reach the nature preserve.

It makes it so unique because it is not overrun with tourists, therefore calm and cozy. Definitely an insider tip for nature lovers.

Bus stops and parking areas at the start and the end of the route.

Check the Online Hiking Map of Norway: ut.no/ (Only in Norwegian)
Check the Online Hiking Map of Norway: outtt.com/en (English available)

Wild Camping is allowed but there are a few points to consider:
The right applies to uncultivated land. (Not fenced)
At least 150m distance to the next house.
You can camp for two days without permission. (For more get landowners permission)

The trails through the forest and nature preserve are very muddy and narrow. Bring hiking shoes otherwise you get wet feet.

Take bus number 76 and get out at stop: Welding Olses Wet. There is the Rustadsaga Parking if you take the car.

At the right to the parking area is the lake Skraperudtjern with a few picnic tables and a nice swimming area. Head to the next lake Nøklevann. There are an info point, restrooms, and the Rustadsaga Sportsstue cafeteria.

Next, take the wide gravel path to the lake Sør-Elvåga. Here are a few hidden spots to pitch your tent, which I recommend to stay for a night. Follow the trail to the next lake Steinsjøen. This is another excellent place to pitch your tent before you enter the nature preserve Østmarka. Check local restrictions for campfires; if it is allowed, it's a perfect choice to do it here.

Run to the lake Tonevannet where you face the "NATURRESERVAT" sign of Østmarka. The trails are narrow, muddy, and rooty. Look out for small lakes to pitch your tent. Leave the nature preserve on the east and take the final run to the lake Gjeddevann. The last spot with a few possible places to pitch your tent.

From there, take the road which is accessible by car to the village Flateby. Take bus number 350 at the stop Gjeddevannsveien to Lillestorm. At Lillestorm take train R10 back to Oslo.

Most of the trail is through forests. Raspberries grow everywhere. Bring anti-mosquito spray, especially if you overstay near the lake and run through the nature preserve.